HC Deb 16 November 1939 vol 353 cc863-4W
Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the congestion, with consequent short-time working, at certain pits in Durham due to transport difficulties, he now proposes to abolish all rationing of coal to enable consumers possessed of motor and other forms of transport to obtain direct larger supplies, and thus contribute towards mitigating the existing unemployment at these collieries?

Mr. Lloyd

As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, every consumer can now use the same quantity of coal that he used last year, and in cases of need can get even this quantity increased. I do not consider, therefore, that the retention of the rationing system is having any material effect on employment at collieries.

Mr. G. Macdonald

asked the Secretary for Mines to what extent the raising of the coal ration from 75 to 100 per cent. of last year's consumption will affect the number of fuel overseers appointed throughout the country?

Mr. Lloyd

It is intended to complete the registration of consumers and the fixing of basic quantities of coal, gas and electricity. I hope this will be done in a few weeks, and that it will then be possible to reduce substantially the number of local fuel overseers.

Mr. G. Macdonald

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he will state the number of fuel overseers appointed; whether the powers entrusted to them enable them to increase the price of coal charged by the retailers; and whether the divisional controllers are empowered to veto or alter such increases?

Mr. Lloyd

There are about 1,800 local fuel overseers in Great Britain. Under the Retail Coal Prices Order, 1939, the local fuel overseer is responsible for determining a schedule of maximum permitted retail coal prices for his area, and for increasing those maximum prices by an amount equivalent to any increase in costs which he is satisfied has been incurred by the merchants selling coal in the area. Whether any merchant sells at or below the schedule price is within the merchant's own discretion. The work of the local fuel overseers in the administration of the Order is under the supervision of the Divisional Coal Officers.